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Harrell, Porter participating in charitable events

Harrell, Porter participating in charitable events

10/1/12: Lucas Harrell turns in a gem against the Cubs, striking out seven over six scoreless frames of two-hit ball to earn his 11th win

By Brian McTaggart
/
MLB.com |

HOUSTON -- Astros pitcher Lucas Harrell is hoping a few thousand fans will takes a few hundred steps to help him raise money for diabetes.

Harrell will have a team taking part in Saturday's American Diabetes Association's Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes event, which will be held at 8:30 a.m. CT at Minute Maid Park. Fans can participate by walking as part of Harrell's team and supporting his fundraising efforts by donating online.

Harrell's father, Brad, was diagnosed with diabetes two years ago, and Lucas has been an advocate for diabetes research since. Harrell will walk with Orbit, the team's new mascot, Astros front-office staff and fans.

"I'm hoping to have a large turnout," Harrell said. "I'd like to do this every year and grow bigger and bigger. I would like 5,000, 6,000 people showing up, but you never know in situations like this. It's my first time doing it and you never know how many people will show up. I know we'll have a large turnout."

Meanwhile, Astros manager Bo Porter will be doing some charity work of his own Saturday.

Porter will join VETSports at its charity softball tournament on Saturday to support wounded soldiers at the Houston Sportsplex, 12631 South Main St. The VETSports mission is to help wounded veterans overcome their injuries through adaptive sports and rehabilitation programs.

Porter will throw out a ceremonial first pitch prior to the 1 p.m. game between the VETSports team of wounded veterans and the Houston Police Department team. Orbit will also be in attendance, along with the Astros Shooting Stars.

The two-day event will include a men's softball tournament (Saturday) and a coed softball tournament (Sunday).